Kids in Madrid

Parque de Atracciones

This huge fun park boasts more than 40 stomach churning rides, as well as puppet and magic shows and a virtual reality zone. The rides are not for the faint hearted and include the chance to try white water rafting and top spin. For the tots there are merry go rounds and train and boat rides.

FAUNIA, Nature theme park

This new science park has 10 pavillions which recreate a different ecosystem with authentic sights, sounds and smells. Experiences include a tropical storm, journey to polar regions and observing nocturnal creatures.

Cosmo Caixa

This state of the art science museum has been an enormous success since its opening in 2000. With lots of interactive displays and hands-on gadgetry, the aim is to stimulate and surprise while inform. Young children (4 to 11) are catered for in the Toca Toca zone where they learn all about plants and animals by stroking all sorts of textures mimicking iguanas, snakes and tortoises. For older children, the highlight is the planetarium, with a virtual tour of the planets.

Aquamadrid

Madrids water park opened in 1987. Kids of all ages can look forward to giant water slides, toboggans, cascades and spiral slides. There is a lake, wave pool and toddlers paddling pool as well as cafes and restaurants.

Retiro

Retiro parks central location makes it perfect for a break from the hustle and bustle. The kids have the chance to run wild or go on a boat ride in the lake as well as rollerblading. There is also a puppet show in the open air theatre near the lake, Spanish is not necessary as the sense of fun is infectious.